Been watching YouTubes on the subject of lifting versus cardio. One guy in particular has me rolling on the floor. There's something about a massive dude speaking passionately about doing cardio that makes me happy. I'm not sure about the science. All I know is that cardio workouts are healthy even if they are really not that effective at weight loss. I have been running for 7 years now and I feel so much better than before. Higher strength levels, higher energy levels. I don't think I could ever go back to just not exercising. I do think that diet is the primary thing you have to work on when losing weight. But exercise -- strength training, endurance training, cardio training -- these are the keys to a long life that feels good. This afternoon I played basketball for 2 hours with this guy at a local park. We tried to beat each other at the most consecutive baskets made.
Ty works at the Y that I attend. He is a basketball freak. I have never seen anybody do what he can do with a basketball. Here's a shot he made by throwing the ball under his legs.
We both had a great workout.
Weight control is all about long term consistency, and in the vast majority of cases the best "cardio workout" for you is simply the one you're most likely to stick with over the long term. This could mean traditional cardio training like the treadmill or the exercise bike, or it could mean outdoor exercises like walking, hiking, running, cycling, tennis, basketball, etc. Just use your common sense to make sure your cardio is not interfering with your recovery between weight training workouts. Just choose whatever activity you enjoy!